The Gadget You Drive: Car Connectivity Tech is Invading CES

The car is the ultimate consumer electronic, and the vehicles we drive are becoming increasingly connected to our phones, to the Web, and to one another. While gadgets like computers, TVs, and phones have always dominated the Consumer Electronics Show, this year's event features a growing body of apps, aftermarket connectivity solution, and other automotive tech.

AppRadio2

AppRadio2

Pioneer has revealed the second generation of the AppRadio system—an impressive update of the aftermarket auto infotainment device the company first launched last June. AppRadio 2 promises more apps than its predecessor and compatibility with select Android devices (the first AppRadio was only compatible the iPhone 4 and 4S). There are currently 12 apps for iPhone 4 and 4S that can run on the AppRadio2 (most notably GPS, traffic, and a healthy selection of music and radio apps), and Pioneer believes several of these will also be developed for Android phones. Along with the Bluetooth capability, HD Radio, and AM/FM Tuner that came with Pioneer's original version, the AppRadio 2 will also feature a larger 7-inch capacitive touchscreen. The AppRadio 2 will be available this spring for $499.

Ford SYNC NPR App

Ford SYNC NPR App

At a joint press conference at CES, Ford and NPR announced a new SYNC NPR app that will work with the NPR app on any Android or iPhone. The dedicated news app is a first for SYNC AppLink and will allow drivers to control the app with voice command or with the car's steering wheel controls. Drivers can also call up individual programs and stations on demand, create playlists and presets, and access public radio stations across the country. And if users ever get confused, the voice of NPR legend Carl Kasell is there to provide a little help—and levity. For now, AppLink is only in select new vehicles, but Ford says its working on retrograding AppLink to work with older SYNC-enabled cars free of charge.